Tchaiko's formative years were a true global odyssey, with her father's prestigious work with UNICEF serving as the catalyst for a childhood spent traversing seven distinct countries. This eclectic and culturally rich upbringing would subsequently have a profound impact on her artistic pursuits, imbuing her with a unique perspective and creative flair.
Following the completion of her education at the esteemed Columbia University, Tchaiko embarked on an internship with two of the most acclaimed filmmakers in the industry, Spike Lee and Mira Nair. Through this invaluable experience, she gained a deep understanding of the inner workings of the film industry, allowing her to hone her skills and develop a keen sense of professionalism.
Tchaiko's foray into the film industry was marked by a series of collaborations with highly respected and accomplished directors, including George C. Wolfe and Tom Vaughan, who provided her with invaluable guidance and mentorship as she worked alongside them on a variety of projects.
As she continued to hone her craft, Tchaiko also seized the opportunity to direct several short-form projects, which served as a platform for her to experiment with different styles and techniques, refine her skills, and meticulously curate a portfolio that showcased her unique perspective and artistic vision.
Tchaiko's unwavering commitment to harnessing the transformative power of her art to bring about meaningful social change has been formally acknowledged with the esteemed Gaea Sea Change Residency award, a prestigious honor that provides vital support to visionary artists who are passionately dedicated to creating positive and lasting social impact through their innovative and forward-thinking work.
Tahlia Bardowell's feature film, SOLACE, achieved a notable milestone by being selected as a semi-finalist for the prestigious Sundance Writers Lab in 2012, a testament to her burgeoning talent and dedication to her craft.
Subsequently, SOLACE received the Panavision New Filmmakers Program award in 2015, a recognition that further solidified its position as a promising project in the world of cinema.
As SOLACE continued to gain momentum, it participated in a range of esteemed programs, including the Tribeca All Access program, which provides valuable resources and support to emerging filmmakers.
The project also benefited from the IFP Narrative Lab, a renowned program that helps writers develop their stories and characters.
Furthermore, SOLACE was selected for the Creative Visions Creative Activist Program, a unique initiative that empowers filmmakers to create projects that drive positive change.
Additionally, the film took part in the Big Vision Empty Wallet diversity program in 2016, a program aimed at promoting greater diversity and inclusion in the film industry.
Through these various programs and awards, SOLACE has established itself as a significant and ambitious project, one that is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
SOLACE, a pioneering film initiative, received prestigious recognition in the form of a Women In Film grant and a Film Independent Efilm/Company 3 grant in 2017, thereby cementing its position as a trailblazing project.
The film made its highly anticipated world premiere at the Los Angeles Film Festival in 2018, where it garnered the Special Jury Mention for Best Ensemble Cast, a testament to the exceptional talent and chemistry of its cast.
Tchaiko's professional endeavors extend far beyond her individual creative pursuits, as she also lends her expertise to the realm of commercial production and direction, masterfully crafting captivating and influential marketing initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences.
